Speech instructors who teach English as a second language to international students are trying to help those students acquire a basic minimal command of English for success or survival in their education and do not require them to attain the fluency expected of native-born speakers of English. At one junior college where foreign student enrollment has increased dramatically, the problems in teaching English as a foreign language are related to the minimal grasp of English the students have and the range of ability in each class. Because of these difficulties, the instructor has found it useful to use a variety of materials as the basis for teaching, including menus from local restaurants, newspapers, texts from the students' courses in written English, and the state drivers' handbook. Class discussions stem from problems faced by the students, such as moving from a rigid society to one with fewer restrictions, lack of awareness of American taboos, financial problems, politics, time concept, and exploitation by local businesses. (TJ)